Objective: This study aimed to investigate the effects of using visual animation on the informed consent for hallux valgus surgery, patient awareness, and patient satisfaction.

Methods: This study included 42 patients with hallux valgus for whom distal metatarsal osteotomy surgeries were planned. During the informed consent process, the patients were informed verbally and in writing. Their knowledge levels were measured using open-ended questions. An animated video, which included disease findings and steps of the planned surgery, was shown to the patients after 28 days on average. The effects of the visual animation on the knowledge levels of the patients and on the satisfaction levels with the patient-doctor communication were examined. Data were analyzed statistically.

Results: Although the animated video provided information on hallux valgus deformity and distal metatarsal osteotomy, patients expressed a better understanding of surgical complications and other treatment options. Video animation significantly increased the knowledge and satisfaction levels of the patients (p=0.001; p<0.01, respectively).

Conclusion: Video animations that provide patients with easily accessible, inexpensive, reproducible, permanent, impressive, and understandable audiovisual information about diseases may be applied in obtaining informed consent and in improving patient-doctor communication.